Tottenham Hotspur have felt the absence of Mohammed Kudus at a critical stage of the campaign. The Ghanaian forward has been sidelined for nearly three months after picking up an injury during the January transfer window—an especially damaging blow given that the club had just parted ways with his direct rival, Brennan Johnson, days earlier.
It has been a hugely disappointing season for Spurs, who are currently sitting just one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League. The North London side have been unable to build any momentum and have yet to register a league win in 2026. Their last victory came back in December against Crystal Palace, with Kudus playing a decisive role in securing all three points.
With Roberto De Zerbi now in charge until the end of the season, Spurs will need their key players to rise to the occasion as they battle to stay in the top flight. The Italian coach will also be eager to have a full-strength squad available ahead of a crucial clash with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light—a match that could prove vital in their survival hopes.
There is, however, some positive news on the injury front. Kudus, who joined the club for £55 million last summer, is close to returning to the first-team setup after his long spell out. His comeback could not come at a better time, and he is expected to play a central role under De Zerbi, particularly on the right wing once he regains full fitness.
Ahead of the Sunderland fixture, De Zerbi will need to field a strong lineup capable of handling the hosts’ attacking threat. According to reports from club insider Paul O’Keefe, Kudus is expected to be fit for the upcoming encounter. The winger has accelerated his recovery and may be ready to make a timely return.
If fully fit, De Zerbi should have no hesitation in starting him. Kudus has been one of Spurs’ standout performers this season, offering creativity and penetration in the final third. His direct style and ability to unlock tight defences make him a crucial asset as the campaign nears its conclusion.
His absence since January has clearly been felt, with Spurs struggling to replicate his influence. Wilson Odobert, who stepped in as his replacement, showed promise before suffering a serious setback of his own—an ACL injury that has ruled him out and left Spurs short of natural options on the right flank.
Whether Kudus will return to action in the coming days remains to be seen, but his potential comeback could provide a much-needed boost as Tottenham fight to avoid relegation.